SPORTS centre worker Simon Albeson, from Darlington, has launched a fundraising drive to raise money for the British Heart Foundation.

The 23-year-old, who works at the Dolphin Centre, in the town centre, also aims to raise enough money to help the sports complex buy a heart defibrillator.

He was inspired to launch the fundraising effort after a man suffered a heart attack and collapsed in the Dolphin Centre reception recently.

Simon, who has worked at the centre since 1996, said staff did everything they could to help the man, but he later died.

He said: "That really got to me. I remember someone turned to me after he died and told me that there was nothing more I could have done. But I thought there was, and that is to raise money to buy a defibrillator.

"I also want to help the British Heart Foundation, so the proceeds from the fundraising drive will be split between the Dolphin Centre and the charity.

"Hopefully I can get as much support as possible."

Simon will be helped by his colleague Paul Soderman, and the first fundraising event will be a staff quiz, which has already been well received.

Simon and Paul are also hoping to hold a 24-hour sponsored stepathon at the sports centre some time later this year.

Simon said: "We are looking to hold a series of fundraising events to reach our target of around £1,000.

"Anyone wishing to give a donation can always contact the Dolphin Centre or pop in, but we will announce events when they are finalised."